Buttermilk Candy
Buttermilk Candy offers a creamy, sweet treat with a tangy twist, perfect for those who enjoy rich confections with a hint of vanilla flavor. A nostalgic homemade delight.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix buttermilk, sugar, and soda; let stand for 5 minutes.
- Add vanilla and butter.
- Bring to a boil and cook until soft ball stage (240° to 243°).
- Beat the mixture and pour into a wet dish towel.
- Roll into a loaf shape and let cool.
- Slice and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your buttermilk is fresh for the best flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Be patient while cooking to the soft ball stage; using a candy thermometer can help achieve accuracy. Stir constantly to prevent burning, and consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the buttermilk candy into bite-sized pieces for easy serving. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful afternoon treat. You can also enjoy it as a sweet addition to dessert platters alongside other confections like Chocolate Lust or Swedish Cardamon Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the buttermilk candy tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about a week. Avoid refrigeration, as it can alter the texture. If you need to reheat, do so gently in the microwave in short intervals to soften it slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttermilk Candy contains roughly 394 calories, with 10g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 541mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, although it may change the color and texture slightly. Keep in mind that brown sugar contains molasses, which could add a unique taste to your buttermilk candy.
How do I know when the mixture has reached the soft ball stage?
To check for the soft ball stage, drop a small amount of the boiling candy mixture into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball that flattens when removed, it's ready. A candy thermometer should read between 240° to 243° Fahrenheit for perfect results.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the buttermilk candy?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding extracts like almond or maple during the cooking process. Consider folding in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added texture. Just be sure not to overload the mixture, as it needs to set properly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).